Dog rabies: the first case reported from Sultanate of Oman

Background: There has been no report of dog rabies in Sultanate of Oman, possibly due to an inadequate active and passive surveillance and response system.

Methods: We recently developed Fluorescent Antibody Test (FAT) and real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a sensitive diagnosis of rabies.

Results: We present the first laboratory proven canine rabies case in Sultanate of Oman. Laboratory facilities for sensitive diagnosis are now available in Sultanate of Oman.

Conclusion: A systematic surveillance system for rabies in domesticated dogs will have a good influence on the control of this zoonotic infection in Sultanate of Oman.